What is the XAT Exam, and Who Conducts It?
Introduction to XAT (Xavier Aptitude Test)
The Xavier Aptitude Test (XAT) is a national-level entrance exam conducted in India for admission into management programs (MBA/PGDM) offered by Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI), Jamshedpur, and over 1,000 other B-schools across India. It is one of the toughest and most competitive MBA entrance exams, alongside CAT, GMAT, and NMAT.
The XAT exam is designed to assess a candidate's analytical ability, verbal and reading comprehension, logical reasoning, decision-making skills, quantitative aptitude, and general awareness. Unlike many other MBA entrance tests, XAT is well known for its unique decision-making section, which tests candidates' managerial and ethical judgment skills.
Who Conducts the XAT Exam?
The Xavier School of Management (XLRI), Jamshedpur, conducts the XAT exam on behalf of XAMI (Xavier Association of Management Institutes). XLRI has been conducting the exam for over 70 years, making it one of India's oldest and most respected management entrance tests.
Key Facts About XAT:
- Conducting Body: XLRI, Jamshedpur (on behalf of XAMI)
- Exam Mode: Online (Computer-Based Test - CBT)
- Frequency: Once a year (January, usually on the first Sunday)
- Application Mode: Online
- Accepting Institutes: XLRI and 1,000+ B-schools in India
- Validity of XAT Score: One year
Why is XAT Important?
- It is considered one of the most difficult MBA entrance exams in India.
- The Decision-Making section makes it unique and challenging, requiring a good understanding of business ethics and logical reasoning.
- Top institutes, including XLRI, XIMB, SPJIMR, IMT Ghaziabad, TAPMI, and Great Lakes, accept XAT scores for MBA admissions.
- It is open to candidates from all academic backgrounds, making it highly competitive.